Welcome to Lyon 🇫🇷
Lyon, a city that caught me completely off guard. I had expected charm, maybe a few picturesque streets and good food. But what I found was something deeper a city with soul. A quieter, more grounded version of Paris, wrapped in golden light and layered in centuries of history, creativity, and connection.
From the first stroll along the Rhône, I felt it, that gentle rhythm of a city that doesn’t rush, but still pulses with life. The old town (Vieux Lyon) felt like walking through time: Renaissance courtyards tucked behind hidden doors, pastel facades climbing the hillside, and narrow traboules weaving through buildings like secret passageways. Every turn led to something beautiful.
But it wasn’t just the architecture or the storybook views, it was the feeling. Mornings were filled with the smell of fresh espresso and warm praline brioche. Afternoons brought lazy riverside walks, window-shopping in quiet boutiques, and the joy of discovering yet another bouchon tucked into a cobbled lane. Evenings glowed not just from the setting sun over Fourvière, but from the laughter echoing out of wine bars and candlelit restaurants on Rue Mercière.
Lyon is where food is more than a meal, it’s an art form. Every bite felt like a love letter to the senses. It’s a city where conversations linger, flavors stay with you, and time seems to slow, just enough for you to notice how beautiful it all is.
And maybe that’s what made Lyon feel so special, its ability to hold both elegance and ease. To be sophisticated without showing off. To feel like a well kept secret, even while it welcomes you in like an old friend.
Lyon wasn’t loud or flashy, it didn’t need to be. It wrapped me in quiet beauty, thoughtful detail, and that unmistakable warmth you only find in places that live and breathe their history.
It didn’t just enchant me.
It embraced me.
And I already know
I’ll be back.
Hello there 👋🏻, I am Sam , the traveler, storyteller behind JourneysBySam. I am here to help you build your Next travel adventure!
Quick Facts to get you around
Currency : Euro
credit/Debit cards works most most of the time but, carry some extra cash for local shops
Visa : Schengen
You need to get an ETA if you do not need schengen visa
Public transport : TCL (Transports en Commun Lyonnais)
operates trams, buses, metro lines, and funiculars throughout the city and suburbs.
Language : French
English is widely used.
“Bonjour” (Hello), “Merci” (Thank you), & “S’il vous plaît” (Please)
Climate : Temperate with Continental Influence
(Dec–Feb): 35–50°F (2–10°C)
(Apr–Jun): 55–75°F (13–24°C)
(Jun–Aug): 70–90°F (21–32°C)
(Sep–Nov): 45–65°F (7–18°C)
Airport : Lyon–Saint-Exupéry Airport (LYS)
Train station : Gare de Lyon Part-Dieu
Connects to Paris, Annecy, Avignon, Marseille, Geneva, Nice, and Strasbourg.
Quick apps
TCL (Transports en Commun Lyonnais), SNCF Connect, Moovit, Google Maps
🚍 Transportation Details
Metro System: Lyon has one of the most efficient metro systems in France. It’s clean, modern, and easy to navigate, connecting the city center with key neighborhoods, business districts, universities, and residential areas. The network includes metro lines, trams, buses, and even funiculars all operated by TCL (Transports en Commun Lyonnais).
Metro: There are 4 metro lines (A, B, C, D) serving the city.
Line A: Connects Perrache (train station) to eastern suburbs via Bellecour (central square).
Line B: Runs north-south through key stops like Part-Dieu (main train station) and Jean Macé.
Line C: A short but scenic ride into the Croix-Rousse hill district.
Line D: The longest line, fully automated, connecting west to east across the city.
🕰️ Metros run from ~5 AM to midnight, with high frequency during the day.
Trams: Lyon has 7 tram lines (T1–T7) covering areas not served by the metro.
Trams are spacious, scenic, and perfect for getting to places like Confluence, universities, and Parc de la Tête d’Or.
They’re especially useful for airport connections, events, and riverside areas.
Buses: TCL also runs an extensive bus network, including night buses and shuttle services. Buses serve local neighborhoods, hillsides like Fourvière, and more remote suburbs.
💡 Note: During peak hours, buses can be slower due to traffic.
Funiculars: Unique to Lyon, two funicular lines take you up to the Fourvière Basilica and the Saint-Just district. They depart from Vieux Lyon station and are a scenic alternative to hiking the hill.
Trains: From Gare de Lyon Part-Dieu and Gare de Perrache, you can catch regional TER and high-speed TGV trains.
Lyon is centrally located and well connected to:
Paris (2 hours)
Avignon (1 hour)
Annecy (2 hours)
Geneva (2 hours)
Marseille (1.5 hours)
Nice (4.5–5 hours)
Tickets:You can buy TCL tickets at metro stations, tram stops, TCL app, or local tabacs.
A single ticket costs €1.90 and is valid for 1 hour on any combination of metro, tram, bus, or funicular.
Day passes and Lyon City Cards are great for visitors wanting unlimited access + museum entries.
Getting to Other Cities: Lyon is well-connected by train and bus. From Lyon, you can easily reach Paris (about 2 hours), Annecy (about 2 hours), Avignon (about 1 hour), Geneva (about 2 hours), Marseille (about 1.5 hours), Strasbourg (about 3.5 hours), and Nice (about 4.5–5 hours).
✈️ Flights to Nice
Nice Côte d’Azur Airport (NCE) is the main gateway to the French Riviera, serviced by major airlines like Air France, Lufthansa, British Airways, Emirates, KLM, EasyJet, and Ryanair. It offers direct flights to major cities across Europe, North Africa, the Middle East, and seasonal routes to North America.
Marseille Provence Airport (MRS) is another alternative for international travelers. From Marseille, you can take a train (about 2.5–3 hours) to reach Nice.
Milan and Paris airports (MXP, CDG, ORY) also offer frequent flights and train connections to Nice, especially useful if you’re doing a multi city European trip.
Best Tip: Fly directly into Nice Airport (NCE) for the most convenient access to the city it’s just 7 km from downtown and easily reachable by tram or taxi in under 30 minutes.
Cheapest Months: January, February, and November typically offer the most affordable flight deals into Nice.
🍷 1 Day in Lyon / 2 Days in Lyon / 3 Days in Lyon Itinerary
Lyon surprised me in the best way possible. 💛 I expected great food (it is the food capital of France after all), but what I didn’t expect was how cozy, elegant, and effortlessly livable the city feels. Walking along the rivers with a glass of wine in hand, wandering through hidden passageways, and sitting down for slow, soul warming meals made Lyon feel less like a tourist stop and more like a place you could truly settle into. It’s charming without trying too hard, and honestly, one of those cities that grows on you more with every hour.
Whether you’re here for a quick stop or a long weekend, here’s how to spend 1, 2, or 3 perfect days in Lyon, with food, views, and magic sprinkled throughout ✨
🍷 1 Day in Lyon The Essentials (Perfect First Taste)
🌞 Morning
🥐 Breakfast in Presqu’île
Start your day with a flaky croissant and coffee near Place Bellecour. Sit outside, people-watch, and ease into Lyon life.
🚶♀️ Stroll Place Bellecour → Rue de la République
One of Europe’s largest squares + lively shopping streets = the perfect intro to the city.
🌿 Afternoon
🍽 Lunch at a traditional bouchon
This is non-negotiable. Order classics like quenelles, salade lyonnaise, or praline tart. Lyon does comfort food right.
🏰 Explore Vieux Lyon (Old Town)
• Wander pastel medieval streets
• Discover hidden traboules (secret passageways 👀)
• Admire Renaissance architecture
🌇 Evening
⛪ Funicular up to Fourvière Basilica
Golden hour views over the entire city? Absolutely yes. 🌅
🍷 Dinner with a view
Choose a restaurant near Fourvière or head back down for a riverside dinner.
✨ Night walk along the Saône River
Soft lights, calm water, and a romantic end to your day.
🍷🍷 2 Days in Lyon Food, History & Slow Wandering
🗓 Day 1
Follow the 1 day itinerary above 👆
🗓 Day 2
🌞 Morning
🧁 Breakfast in Croix-Rousse
This artsy, local neighborhood has such a creative energy.
🎨 Explore Croix-Rousse Hill
• Known as the silk-weavers’ district
• Vintage shops, murals, local markets
• Feels very “real Lyon”
🌿 Afternoon
🍽 Lunch at Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse
A food lover’s dream 🤍
• Cheese, charcuterie, pastries, wine
• Perfect for grazing and tasting everything
🏛 Musée des Confluences (optional)
Futuristic architecture + fascinating exhibits at the meeting point of the Rhône & Saône.
🌙 Evening
🍷 Wine bar hopping
Try natural wine bars or cozy caves à vin around Presqu’île.
🍽 Dinner in a modern Lyon bistro
A lighter, contemporary take on classic Lyonnaise cuisine.
🍷🍷🍷 3 Days in Lyon, The Full Experience
🗓 Days 1 & 2
Follow the itineraries above 💫
🗓 Day 3
🌞 Morning
🌿 Riverside walk along the Rhône
Joggers, cyclists, locals reading by the water — such a vibe.
☕ Coffee + slow morning
Lyon is meant to be enjoyed unhurriedly.
🌿 Afternoon
🛍 Local shopping & hidden corners
• Artisan boutiques
• Bookstores
• Local food shops for souvenirs
🍰 Praline dessert stop
Pink praline tart is a Lyon specialty, don’t skip it!
🌙 Evening
🍷 Farewell dinner
Choose your favorite neighborhood from the trip and go all in, good wine, long conversation, no rushing.
✨ One last city stroll
Because Lyon at night just hits differently.
💡 Helpful Lyon Tips
• 🚇 Getting around: Public transport is excellent, walk + metro is all you need
• 👟 Wear comfy shoes: Cobblestones everywhere
• 🍽 Make dinner reservations: Especially for bouchons
• 🍷 Eat slowly: Lyon is about enjoying, not rushing
🤍 Final Thoughts
Lyon feels like one of those cities that doesn’t scream for attention, it gently pulls you in. With its food culture, river walks, hidden passageways, and relaxed pace, it’s perfect for travelers who love good meals, beautiful views, and authentic city energy. If Paris feels grand and dramatic, Lyon feels warm, grounded, and deeply satisfying.
If you’re planning a France trip, don’t skip Lyon, it might just become your favorite stop 🥂✨
🌸 Best Time to Visit Lyon (Seasons, weather & crowds)
Lyon is one of those cities that truly changes its personality with the seasons ✨ From flower filled river walks to cozy winter lights, there’s no bad time, just different vibes. Here’s how to choose the best time for you.
🌷 Spring (April–June) Best Overall Time
Weather: Mild & sunny (55–72°F / 13–22°C)
Crowds: Light to moderate
Why it’s perfect:
• Blooming parks & riversides 🌸
• Ideal walking weather
• Café terraces come alive
• Fewer tourists than summer
💛 My favorite season in Lyon. It feels fresh, romantic, and unhurried, perfect for slow mornings, food markets, and long strolls.
Best for: First-timers, photographers, food lovers
☀️ Summer (July–August) Lively but Warm
Weather: Hot (75–90°F / 24–32°C)
Crowds: Moderate (locals travel, tourists arrive)
What to expect:
• Long daylight hours 🌞
• Festivals & outdoor dining
• Riverbanks buzzing with locals
• Some shops close in August
💡 Tip: Plan sightseeing early mornings or evenings and relax mid-day.
Best for: Festivals, nightlife, summer energy
🍁 Fall (September–October) Cozy & Underrated
Weather: Cool & pleasant (50–70°F / 10–21°C)
Crowds: Low to moderate
Why it’s special:
• Wine harvest season 🍷
• Gorgeous autumn colors
• Food feels extra comforting
• Slower, local rhythm
🤍 If you love cozy cafés, wine bars, and golden hour walks, fall is chef’s kiss.
Best for: Wine lovers, couples, relaxed travelers
❄️ Winter (November–March) Magical (with a caveat)
Weather: Cold (35–50°F / 2–10°C)
Crowds: Very low (except December)
Highlights:
• Fête des Lumières (December) ✨
• Festive lights & cozy bouchons
• Budget-friendly hotels
• Quiet, authentic city feel
⚠️ Short days + chilly temps, but December is truly enchanting.
Best for: Budget travelers, winter vibes, festive lovers
🏆 Quick Verdict
✨ Best overall: April–June
🍷 Best food & wine vibes: September–October
🎉 Best festivals: July + December
💸 Best budget season: January–February
🤍 Final Thought
If you want Lyon at its most beautiful, relaxed, and romantic, go in spring or fall. That’s when the city feels like it’s living just for you, warm enough to wander, calm enough to savor, and full of those small, magical moments that make Lyon unforgettable 🌸🥂
🥐 Where to Eat in Lyon: Best bouchons, bakeries & food halls
If Lyon had a love language, it would be food 🤍 From cozy bouchons where time slows down, to bakeries that perfume the street with butter, to a food hall that feels like heaven for gourmands, this city eats so well. Here’s a curated, tried and true guide to the best places to eat in Lyon.
🍷 Best Traditional Bouchons (Classic Lyonnaise Food)
🏛 Le Café des Fédérations
A Lyon institution. Lively, generous portions, and unapologetically traditional.
Order: Quenelles de brochet, salade lyonnaise, praline tart
Vibe: No-frills, authentic, always buzzing
🍽 Daniel & Denise
Run by a legendary Lyon chef, elevated but still comforting.
Order: Sausage in brioche, pike quenelles
Vibe: Classic, cozy, very “old Lyon”
🍷 Le Garet
Perfect if you want a quieter, more intimate bouchon experience.
Order: Andouillette, cheese course
Vibe: Warm, rustic, romantic
💡 Bouchon tip: Come hungry and book ahead, especially on weekends.
🧁 Best Bakeries & Sweet Treats
🥐 Boulangerie du Palais
One of Lyon’s most beloved bakeries.
Must-try: Croissants, pain au chocolat
Why: Perfectly flaky, never disappointing
🍰 Sève
Elegant pastries and chocolates by a master chocolatier.
Must-try: Praline pastries, chocolates
Why: Beautiful + delicious
💗 Pralus
This is where Lyon’s iconic pink praline brioche shines.
Must-try: Praluline
Why: Sweet, nutty, and very Lyon
🧀 Best Food Hall (Don’t Skip This!)
🏆 Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse
A dream for food lovers, even if you’re not hungry (you will be).
You’ll find:
• Cheeses, charcuterie & oysters 🧀🦪
• Pastries & chocolates
• Wine bars & casual counters
✨ Perfect for lunch, grazing, or souvenir shopping.
🍷 Wine Bars & Casual Eats
🍷 Antoine
Natural wines + small plates.
Vibe: Chic but relaxed
🍽 Le Bouchon des Filles
A modern, lighter take on bouchon cuisine.
Vibe: Cozy, friendly, great for dinner
🤍 My Honest Take
Lyon isn’t about chasing Michelin stars (though they exist), it’s about slow meals, simple ingredients, and deep flavors. Sit down, order local, drink the wine, and don’t rush. Some of my favorite meals here were the ones that lasted hours.
If you love food cities like Florence or San Sebastián, Lyon will absolutely win you over 🥂
🛏️ Best Areas to Stay in Lyon for Every Traveler
Choosing where to stay in Lyon is actually kind of fun because each neighborhood has its own personality 🤍 Whether you want medieval charm, walk everywhere convenience, or a local, artsy vibe, Lyon has a perfect base for you. Here’s a simple, honest breakdown to help you decide.
🏰 Vieux Lyon : Best for First Timers & Old World Charm
Vibe: Historic, romantic, storybook
Best for: First time visitors, couples, short stays
✨ Staying here feels like waking up inside a postcard.
Why stay here:
• Cobblestone streets & Renaissance buildings
• Close to bouchons & landmarks
• Easy access to Fourvière Basilica
• Super atmospheric mornings & evenings
⚠️ Keep in mind:
• Can be touristy mid-day
• Streets are narrow (pack light!)
Perfect if you want: Charm over convenience, classic Lyon magic 🕯️
🏙️ Presqu’île : Best Overall Location (My Top Pick)
Vibe: Lively, central, elegant
Best for: Walkers, food lovers, shoppers, short or long stays
🤍 If you only choose one area, this is it.
Why stay here:
• Between the Rhône & Saône rivers
• Walkable to almost everything
• Best shopping, cafés & nightlife
• Excellent public transport access
⚠️ Keep in mind:
• Slightly pricier than other areas
• Busy during peak hours
Perfect if you want: Convenience + energy + beautiful city life ✨
🎨 Croix Rousse : Best for Local & Artsy Vibes
Vibe: Creative, residential, relaxed
Best for: Longer stays, slow travelers, repeat visitors
🌿 This area feels the most “local” and lived in.
Why stay here:
• Silk-weavers’ history & murals
• Vintage shops & indie cafés
• Less touristy, more authentic
• Amazing viewpoints over the city
⚠️ Keep in mind:
• Hilly terrain (bring comfy shoes 👟)
• A bit farther from main sights
Perfect if you want: Calm mornings, creative energy, neighborhood feels 🤍
💡 Final Tip
If it’s your first visit, stay in Presqu’île for balance or Vieux Lyon for charm.
If you’re staying longer or want something more local, Croix Rousse is a gem.
No matter where you stay, Lyon’s excellent transport and walkability make it easy to explore everything, just pick the vibe that feels most you 🤍
🚆 Day Trips from Lyon
Annecy, Beaujolais Wine Region & Pérouges, easy escapes you’ll love
One of my favorite things about Lyon is how perfectly placed it is 🤍 In under an hour, you can go from city cafés to alpine lakes, rolling vineyards, or a medieval village that feels frozen in time. If you have extra days (or even just one), these day trips from Lyon are 100% worth it.
🏞️ Annecy : The “Venice of the Alps”
⏱️ Travel time: ~2 hrs by train
🚆 How to get there: Direct trains from Lyon Part-Dieu
Annecy is pure magic ✨ Think turquoise canals, flower-lined bridges, pastel houses, and a sparkling lake backed by mountains.
What to do in a day:
🌸 Wander Annecy Old Town & canals
🏰 Visit Château d’Annecy (for views!)
🚣♀️ Walk or bike along Lake Annecy
🥐 Lunch by the water (slow + scenic)
💛 Best for: Nature lovers, photographers, romantic day trips
💡 Tip: Go early, it gets busy, especially in summer.
🍷 Beaujolais, Rolling Vineyards & Wine Tastings
⏱️ Travel time: 30–45 mins
🚗 How to get there: Car or guided wine tour (best option)
Just north of Lyon lies the Beaujolais wine region, known for golden hills, charming villages, and easy drinking reds 🍇
What to do in a day:
🍷 Visit family-run wineries
🏘 Explore villages like Oingt & Fleurie
🌿 Vineyard walks + wine tastings
🥖 Long lunch with local wine
💛 Best for: Wine lovers, slow travelers, couples
💡 Tip: A guided tour = zero stress + more tastings 😌
🏰 Pérouges, A Medieval Fairytale
⏱️ Travel time: ~45 mins
🚆 How to get there: Train to Meximieux + short walk
Pérouges feels like stepping into a storybook 📖 Cobblestone streets, stone houses, and ivy covered walls, it’s small, but incredibly charming.
What to do in a few hours:
🏰 Wander the medieval village
🍰 Try the famous galette de Pérouges
📸 Take photos around Place du Tilleul
☕ Sit, snack, and soak it all in
💛 Best for: History lovers, short trips, unique villages
💡 Tip: Combine with lunch back in Lyon for a relaxed day.
🤍 Final Thought
If Lyon is your base, these day trips add completely different moods to your itinerary, lake views, wine country calm, and medieval magic. If you only choose one, Annecy is unforgettable. But pairing Lyon with Beaujolais or Pérouges makes your trip feel beautifully well rounded 🥂✨
